PA01.12. Evaluations of role of vishesha shodhana of metals with specific reference to tamra shodhana

PURPOSE: In this research work, an effort was made to observe effects of Samanya Shodhanottara Vishesha Shodhana and only Vishesha Shodhana upon Tamra. METHOD: Methods described in Rasatangini were followed to perform Samanya as well as Vishesha Shodhana. The study was carried out in two parts. In first part, actual process of Shodhana by various methods was performed and six samples were prepared. In second part, analysis of Ashodhita and Shodhita Taamra (Samanya Shodhanottara Vishesha Shodhit as well as only Vishesh Shodhita) was carried out. For this purpose, following parameters of analysis were considered- Change in physical characteristics of copper foils pre and post Shodhana, Change in weight of copper foils pre and post Shodhana, Pattern of XRPD for each sample, Percentage of copper in each sample by ICP AES, Change in electrical conductivity of each sample. RESULT: After Samanya Shodhana, the previous shine of copper was totally lost and it had crumpled appearance. Overall, Changes in tenacity of metal were also observed. The hardness went on decreasing and brittleness went on increasing. Steady fall in weight of Tamra was observed after each Shodhana. The XRPD samples of all the samples of Shodhita Tamra showed presence of copper and copper oxides in them. However, the peak positions and intensities of them were varying. There was marked decline in electrical conductivity post Shodhana. CONCLUSION: It appeared from this study that Vishesha Shodhana of metals if preceded by their Samanya Shodhana produces better results. This time tested exercise certainly brings about significant changes in metallic properties of metals. Performing only Vishesha Shodhana or only Samanya Shodhana is not adequate.